The Essential Apps for LGBT Travellers You Shouldn’t Miss

Travelling today means carrying more than your passport and suitcase. Your smartphone has become a lifeline, helping you explore, connect, and stay safe. For LGBT+ travellers, choosing the right tools is especially important. The world is open, but not every destination is equally welcoming. That’s why having the best apps for LGBT travellers at your fingertips makes every journey easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Many people book a gay holiday because they want more than just a break in the sun. They want reassurance. They want to know they can be themselves without second-guessing. And sometimes, “gay friendly” isn’t friendly enough. This is where Wide Awake Holidays comes in. We understand that a trip is more than hotels and flights—it’s about experiences where you feel respected and free.

So what role do apps play? They bridge gaps. They let you find inclusive spaces, connect with local communities, and avoid risks in unfamiliar cities. They can even help you discover hidden gems that guidebooks often miss. Whether you’re planning your first trip as an LGBT+ couple or you’re a seasoned traveller chasing new adventures, these digital tools have become part of the essential packing list.

The focus of this guide is simple. We’ve narrowed the field to five must-have apps that genuinely make a difference when travelling as an LGBT+ person. We’ll look at what they offer, where they shine, and how they can improve your holiday—whether that’s in Barcelona, Cape Town, or a quiet countryside retreat.

What makes this list different from others you may have read? We go beyond generic downloads. Instead, we’ve chosen apps that balance safety, community, and fun. Each one has been selected because it addresses real needs LGBT+ travellers face. We’re not just suggesting the obvious names; we’re curating a set of tools you’ll want on your home screen before your next holiday.

Alongside these apps, you’ll also find something more. At Wide Awake Holidays, we’re not only recommending digital helpers. We’re showing how they fit into a bigger picture of travel security and personalised support. When you book with us, you get more than flights and accommodation—you gain peace of mind. And when you pair that reassurance with the right apps, you’ll have the confidence to explore anywhere in the world.

Ready to discover which apps every LGBT+ traveller should download? Let’s explore the five that stand out and why they deserve a place on your phone.

Misterb&b: The Airbnb Alternative for LGBT Travellers

When searching for a place to stay, not every listing feels welcoming. That’s where Misterb&b comes in. Often called the “Airbnb for the LGBT+ community,” it offers a platform where you know the host understands and embraces who you are. This makes it one of the most practical apps for LGBT travellers looking for peace of mind and inclusivity.

With over a million listings worldwide, Misterb&b gives you access to private rooms, entire apartments, and even LGBT-owned hotels. You can filter by location, budget, or type of property. But what sets it apart is the feeling of safety. You’re not left wondering whether the host might raise an eyebrow when you arrive with your partner. Instead, you’re stepping into a space where being LGBT+ isn’t just tolerated—it’s celebrated.

Another benefit is the community element. The app helps you connect with hosts who often share local knowledge about gay-friendly bars, clubs, or cultural highlights. Many users say these recommendations turn a good trip into a great one. That human connection is something you rarely get from mainstream booking sites.

Misterb&b also supports exclusive gay resorts and hotels in key destinations. Imagine a stay at a property where every guest identifies as part of the community. You don’t have to explain, you don’t have to hide, and you don’t have to filter your affection. For many couples, that freedom is what makes a holiday truly relaxing.

And here’s something extra. When booking through Wide Awake Holidays, you can combine Misterb&b stays with our tailor-made packages. That means you get the best of both worlds: access to a trusted LGBT+ travel app and the financial security of booking through an ATOL-protected agency. If a property we mention has an offer available, you’ll see it highlighted—giving you more choice and better value.

A short stay, a city break, or a two-week adventure abroad—Misterb&b makes finding the right accommodation easy and affirming. It’s no surprise it tops the list of recommended apps for gay holidays.

GeoSure: Safety Insights for LGBT Travellers

One of the biggest concerns when travelling as an LGBT+ person is safety. Laws, customs, and attitudes vary widely across the world, and even within the same country. This is why GeoSure stands out as one of the smartest apps for LGBT travellers.

GeoSure is more than a travel safety app. It gives hyper-local ratings for cities and neighbourhoods, covering categories like health, theft risk, physical safety, and even LGBT+ safety. That last one is particularly valuable because it draws on real-time data and community input to show how welcoming—or challenging—an area might be for gay travellers.

Imagine arriving in a new city late at night. You’re not sure which part of town is safe to explore. GeoSure lets you check ratings instantly, so you know which areas to avoid and which are open to LGBT+ visitors. This takes the guesswork out of your plans.

The app is also handy if you’re travelling with friends or family. You can create group profiles to share updates, track safety alerts, and even set check-in reminders. That way, if someone goes exploring solo, the rest of the group has peace of mind.

For LGBT+ travellers who want to go beyond the main tourist spots, this app is invaluable. You can confidently step off the beaten path while still staying informed. It doesn’t stop you from exploring—it empowers you to do so safely.

Pairing GeoSure with Wide Awake Holidays’ expertise creates a strong safety net. While the app helps with on-the-ground awareness, booking through us ensures your trip is financially protected. With ATOL cover, Protected Trust Services membership, and Supplier Failure Insurance included, you don’t just travel smarter—you travel with complete reassurance.

Every LGBT+ holiday should be exciting, not stressful. GeoSure gives you the confidence to relax and enjoy, knowing that you have reliable information at your fingertips.

App #3 – Grindr and Hornet: Connecting LGBT Travellers Anywhere

Travel is about more than places. It’s about people. Whether you’re exploring a new city, attending Pride, or simply wanting company for dinner, connection apps like Grindr and Hornet remain essential. That’s why they’re among the most widely used apps for LGBT travellers.

Grindr is the best-known app in this category. With millions of users worldwide, it gives you instant access to the local LGBT+ community wherever you are. For travellers, this can mean meeting locals who are happy to share insider tips about where to go and what to avoid. A casual chat could lead you to a hidden cocktail bar, a weekend event, or simply someone to share a coffee with.

Hornet offers a slightly different experience. It combines dating and social networking with a community feel. Many travellers use Hornet not only to connect but also to discover LGBT+ news, events, and cultural updates in real time. This makes it especially useful if you’re arriving in a city during festival season or when the nightlife is buzzing.

It’s worth remembering that while these apps create opportunities, safety always comes first. Meeting someone abroad is exciting, but it’s sensible to meet in public places and let a friend know your plans. This way, you enjoy the spontaneity of connection without unnecessary risks.

From a travel perspective, these apps are more than about dating. They’re about finding community in unfamiliar surroundings. For many LGBT+ travellers, that sense of belonging transforms a holiday into something memorable.

And here’s where Wide Awake Holidays can help you weave it all together. Imagine planning a trip to a destination known for its LGBT+ nightlife, like Mykonos or Sitges. We can tailor your holiday around Pride events, gay beach clubs, or even adult-only gay resorts. Add Grindr or Hornet to the mix, and you’re not just visiting—you’re joining in.

If there’s an exclusive gay property available in your chosen destination, we’ll highlight it as part of your travel package. And if there’s a special offer, we’ll make sure you see it before booking.

The result is simple: apps like Grindr and Hornet help you meet people, and Wide Awake Holidays ensures you have the perfect setting to enjoy those connections.

App #4 – Google Maps: A Travel Essential for LGBT Travellers

Not every app needs to be LGBT-specific to make a difference. Sometimes, the most powerful tools are the ones you already know. Google Maps is one of those must-have apps for LGBT travellers because it combines practicality with flexibility.

Why does it matter so much? Because it takes the stress out of getting around. Whether you’re trying to find a gay bar in Berlin, the quickest way to the beach in Ibiza, or a quiet café in Prague, Google Maps gets you there. It helps you avoid wandering aimlessly in areas that may not be welcoming.

The app also links to reviews and photos. For LGBT+ travellers, this can be a subtle way of checking whether a venue feels inclusive. If other travellers have mentioned it’s popular with the gay community, you’ve got an extra layer of reassurance before you step inside.

One underused feature is the ability to download offline maps. This is a lifesaver in destinations where roaming charges are high or internet access is patchy. It means you’re never left stranded, even if you can’t connect to Wi-Fi.

Another bonus is how Google Maps integrates with public transport. You can check routes, track live departure times, and even see how busy a service might be. This reduces stress and gives you the confidence to move around like a local.

For Wide Awake Holidays clients, Google Maps often pairs beautifully with our tailor-made itineraries. Picture this: we design your trip with a mix of LGBT-friendly hotels, cultural stops, and nightlife. You can then save everything into your Google Maps lists, ready to access on the go. It becomes your digital travel diary, guiding you through each moment.

And here’s a thought. While apps like Grindr and Hornet connect you to people, Google Maps connects you to places. Used together, they transform your holiday into a seamless mix of exploration and community.



Travel should feel liberating, not complicated. That’s why Google Maps earns its spot as an essential app for any LGBT+ traveller.

App #5 – TripIt: Organising LGBT Travellers with Confidence

Organisation is one of the most overlooked parts of travelling. Flights, hotel bookings, event tickets, and transfers can quickly pile up into a confusing mix of emails and paper notes. That’s where TripIt comes in. It’s one of the smartest apps for LGBT travellers because it keeps everything in one place, reducing stress and freeing you to focus on enjoying your holiday.

TripIt works by scanning your email for booking confirmations. It then creates a single, easy-to-read itinerary that you can access anytime, even offline. No more scrolling through your inbox at the airport. Everything you need is at your fingertips.

For LGBT+ travellers, this brings an extra layer of value. Imagine planning a Pride trip to Madrid with Wide Awake Holidays. You might have flights, a hotel, event passes, restaurant bookings, and guided tours. TripIt puts all of that into one timeline. Add your Google Maps and GeoSure alerts, and you’re fully prepared for both fun and safety.

The app also allows you to share your itinerary with friends or family. This feature is particularly reassuring if you’re travelling solo or visiting a destination where being LGBT+ might be more complicated. A trusted contact back home knows exactly where you’re meant to be, adding a quiet but powerful layer of safety.

TripIt Pro, the premium version, goes even further. It tracks flight delays, gate changes, and even refund opportunities. For frequent travellers, that upgrade is worth every penny.

When combined with Wide Awake Holidays’ personalised travel service, TripIt makes holidays feel effortless. We handle the planning, you sync it into the app, and suddenly your entire trip is organised without you lifting a finger. Pair that with our ATOL protection, Supplier Failure Insurance, and global reach, and you’ve got a stress-free way to travel anywhere in the world.

A holiday should feel relaxing from the moment you book until the day you return. TripIt makes sure of that by giving LGBT+ travellers a reliable, streamlined tool for staying organised and informed.

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Travel Protections You Get with Jamie Wake Travel

Apps help you on the ground, but nothing replaces the peace of mind that comes with booking through a trusted travel company. At Jamie Wake Travel, every holiday is fully protected from the moment you confirm your booking.

Here’s what you can expect:

• ATOL Licence – Your money is safe if your airline fails, and you’ll never be stranded abroad without a way home.
• Protected Trust Services Membership – All client funds are kept in trust until your holiday is complete, giving you maximum financial security.
• Supplier Failure Insurance – If a hotel or tour operator closes unexpectedly, your holiday continues without disruption.
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance – Flights are secured even if an airline stops operating.

This combination of protections means you don’t just book a trip. You book with confidence. While apps like GeoSure or TripIt help keep your travel smooth and safe, our protections guarantee that your investment is secure from start to finish. For up-to-date safety guidance, the UK FCDO provides clear advice for LGBT+ travellers preparing to go abroad.”

Jamie Says:

"I always tell our clients that apps are great for making travel easier, but it’s the combination of technology and trust that makes a holiday unforgettable. With the right apps and our ATOL-protected service, you’re free to relax and explore the world as your true self”

Jamie Wake, Managing Director

Why Wide Awake Holidays Completes the Picture

We’ve explored the five must-have apps for LGBT+ travellers, from accommodation and safety to connection, navigation, and organisation. Each has its role, but together they form a toolkit that every gay holidaymaker should carry.

The apps give you confidence. Wide Awake Holidays gives you security. Together, they create the perfect balance between independence and support. And because we are a gay-owned UK travel company, we understand the importance of creating spaces where you don’t have to compromise who you are.

Whether you’re booking from London, New York, or anywhere else in the world, our tailor-made holidays ensure you get more than just a trip. You get reassurance, protection, and a personal service built around your needs.

Book Your Next LGBT Holiday with Wide Awake Holidays



The best holidays start with peace of mind. With the right apps and Wide Awake Holidays by your side, you’ll have everything you need to travel safely, confidently, and joyfully.

Call us today on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to start planning. Your next unforgettable LGBT+ holiday is only a conversation away.

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